A BLIND golfer who wowed the nation by scoring a hole in one will open the annual Guide Dogs charity golf day at Forest Hills.

Arthur Aston, of Shropshire, has been blind for the past two years and was playing at his local golf course in Cleobury Mortimer, when his match took a surprising turn.

Lesley Maclean of Guide Dogs for the Blind said: "Arthur's achievement has featured across the national media and is remarkable. We heard about him through his neighbour, who happens to take pictures at our golf days, and he put us in touch with Arthur's buddy. He was more than happy to help support our event which is to raise money to buy our sixth guide dog puppy. The dogs cost around £5,000 and the cost to maintain a guide dog in a lifetime is £50,000 – it's not cheap but the work they do is invaluable."

Arthur will be teeing off at the start of the competition, which involves striking a ball from the teeing ground at the start of a hole, and will be on hand throughout the day on Friday, September 20.

Ann Richards from The Forest of Dean Branch of Guide Dogs added: "We are delighted that Arthur is coming along to our charity golf day. Each year has been very enjoyable and we have always been lucky with the weather."

There is still a chance to enter a team or be a sponsor for the day. It is an 18-hole amateur four ball team Stableford and food is provided. For more information contact Ann Richards on 01594 833122.